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Witty's Funeral Home, 158 S Main Street, Orange, MA (2025)

12/12/2025

December 11, 2025

Alice M. Woessner

ATHOL- Alice M. (Barnes) Woessner, 92, of Highland Street, died peacefully on Wednesday morning, December 10, 2025 at Alliance Health at Baldwinville.
Born in Orange on September 11, 1933, she was the daughter of Harold L. and Myrtle (Swan) Barnes, she grew up in Orange and graduated from Orange High School in 1951.
Alice was previously married to Robert J. Woessner who died on September 13, 2005.
Employed by the Athol- Royalston Regional School District, Alice was the cafeteria manager and retired in 1996, having the cafeteria named in her honor, “Alice’s Restaurant”. She had previously worked for Orange National Bank, Dawn Dairy, Tepper’s and Pete & Henry’s Restaurant. Alice had also been an Avon lady and a Boy Scout Den Mother.
Alice was an active member of the Athol Congregational Church and had worked many suppers and fairs.
An avid cook, Alice also enjoyed doing puzzles, reading, crocheting and the Boston Red Sox. She served as the cook at Camp Wiyaka over 7 years, helped with Blood mobile canteens and was an Election Warden and poll worker for the Town of Athol.
Survivors include her children, Diane Myntti (Dale) of Athol, Michael Woessner (Pat) of Gardner, Richard Woessner of Agawam, Jimmy Woessner (Diane) of New Salem, Joanne Cole (Bob) of Chapel Hill, TN, Elaine Heath (Kevin) of Athol and Jean Fountain (Kevin) of Athol; grandchildren, Sarah, Christa, Shaunna, Alan, Steven, Errin, Thomas, Kurtis, Carly, Stephanie, Travis and Nathan; great grandchildren, Ryan, Madison, Owen, Braycen, Logan, Raelynn, Isaiah, Coraline, Heather, Hailey, Ava and Oliver. She also leaves her siblings, Nancy Blackmer of North Orange, Roy Barnes of Rome, NY, Harriette Kring of Milton, WA, and Kenny Barnes of Columbia, MD; and many nieces and nephews and grandnieces and grandnephews.
Besides her parents and husband, Alice was predeceased by a grandson, Matthew Field, a brother, Leslie Barnes and a daughter in law, Jennifer Woessner.
Calling hours will be held on Monday, December 15, 2025 from 4-6 p.m., at Witty’s Funeral Home, 158 South Main Street, Orange.
A funeral service will be held on Tuesday, December 16, 2025 at 11 a.m., at Witty’s Funeral Home in Orange.
Interment will follow in Silver Lake Cemetery, Athol.
In lieu of flowers, donations are suggested to Athol Congregational Church, Memory Book, 1225 Chestnut Street, Athol, MA 01331 or to the Athol Area YMCA, Camp Wiyaka, 545 Main Street, Athol, MA 01331.
Witty’s Funeral Home, 158 South Main Street, Orange, is assisting the family.
WWW.WITTYFUNERALHOME.COM

12/11/2025

Posting for our friends-

Edward Joseph Dornig (Eddie) passed away on Saturday, December 6, 2025 at St. Joseph’s hospital in Nashua, NH from complications of advanced Alzheimer’s disease.

He was born on June 2, 1942 at Norwood Hospital in Norwood, MA to Edward Jacob and Ruth Frances (Pooler) Dornig.

In his younger years, Ed resided with his parents at the Dornig homestead in Walpole, MA. The family moved to Medfield, MA in the spring of 1945, where his parents purchased a diner in the heart of Medfield that would become known as “The Medfield Lunch” and moved to a home on Spring Street. Three years later, in the spring of 1948, the family bought and relocated to a property that was being built just down the street from their first home. Ed proudly took care of this home up until his passing.

Ed attended all of his early school years in Medfield and graduated in 1961 from Medfield High School. As a teenager he kept himself busy with the many jobs he worked, including, helping to dig graves and mow the lawn at the cemetery for Joe Roberts’ Funeral Home, stocking shelves at the local A&P, and also at the Mobile gas station, which at the time was located in the center of town.

After graduating from high school, he along with his friend, Chicky, enlisted in the US Navy on October 12, 1961. Ed became a Sonar Technician for the Navy and he remained confidential about his duties for all of his life. He was stationed in Key West, Fl and then was transferred to Argentia in Newfoundland, Canada. Through a family friend back in Medfield, Ed was introduced to the Mercer family in St. John’s, Newfoundland. The Mercer family remained close friends of Ed’s for 63 years, and he would often travel back to see them with October 2022 being his last visit. After his time stationed in Newfoundland, he was transferred to Barbados in the Caribbean. He remained there until he was honorably discharged on February 7, 1966. Ed loved his time spent in the Navy and spoke of it fondly every chance he could.

After his military service, he returned to Medfield and attended Bentley College, graduating in 1971 with a degree in accounting. After which, he began his career at the Internal Revenue Service. As a Revenue Agent, he was transferred to Greenfield, MA. Where he would go on to meet his wife, Laurie. Later, Ed retired after 25 years and then became an Enrolled Agent, preparing individual and business tax returns.

As a very young adult Ed took an interest in car racing and would have his mother drive him to Norwood Arena to watch the stock cars. While in high school he drove to Indianapolis to attend his first Indy 500. His first Daytona 500 in Florida was in 1974 and attended over 40 of them thereafter. His love of motor racing led him to start a radio show known as The Checkered Flag Report on the Bear Country 95.3 station in Greenfield, Ma. There he reported on various moments of racing for over 30 years; he interviewed many people in the community alongside his co hosts.

Ed went on to drive a racecar at Monadnock Speedway in Wi******er, NH, which gave way to his love of driving, including road trips all over the country. His pride was his Westfalia VW Camper, which made a trip to the northernmost tip of Newfoundland and all the way down to the southernmost tip of Florida, Key West.

On August 26, 1989 he married Laurie Hall and the pair moved to Orange, Ma. On June 16, 1999 a new phase of his life began when his daughter, Bethany Neska-Marion Dornig, was born. Due to his retirement, he was able to raise her and this brought him great joy. He went on to be a computer teacher at her elementary school, chaperoned many school dances and was a constant presence in her life.

In August of 2013, Ed moved his family back to Medfield for Bethany to attend Medfield High School, where he also became a substitute teacher. He was very happy to rejoin the community of his hometown. You could often find Ed at the local swap working with electronics, mowing the lawn or enjoying a meal at Noon Hill and if you were to cross paths he would always have a story to tell. He loved talking to people.

Ed leaves behind his wife Laurie Dornig of 36 years of marriage and his daughter Bethany of Medfield. Mother-in-Law, Jeanette Hall, Sister-in-Law, Lurene Hall, Niece, Jillian (Hall) Bastine and her husband Cory and their daughter, Brooke all from Orange, MA.

Ed also leaves behind many cousins from the Dornig family along with many friends.

He was predeceased by his parents, Edward and Ruth Dornig, Brother-in-Law, Bryan Hall and Nephew Philip Hall.

His Funeral Mass will be Tuesday December 23rd 11:30 at St. Edward the Confessor Church, 133 Spring St, Medfield. Burial to follow with full military honors at Vine Lake Cemetery. Visiting hours will be Monday 3-6PM at the Roberts Mitchell Caruso Funeral Home, 15 Miller St, Medfield.

Those wishing may make memorial donations in Ed’s memory to the Fisher House of Boston at: https://fisherhouseboston.org/donate/

12/10/2025

December 10, 2025

Sherrie L. Sexton

ATHOL- Sherrie Lynn (Wilder) Sexton, 54, of Athol, passed away peacefully at home on Wednesday, December 3, 2025, surrounded by the love of her husband and children.
Born on June 28, 1971, in Houston, TX, Sherrie was the daughter of the late Laureen J. (Hickey) Wilder. She moved to Athol at a young age to be back with family and made the community her lifelong home. Sherrie graduated from Athol High School in 1989 and later earned her degree in Social Work from Mount Wachusett Community College.
She was a dedicated social worker who found profound happiness in helping others. Sherrie was a beautiful soul and positive light, someone whose warmth will be deeply missed and never forgotten by all who felt it.
The greatest loves of her life were her husband, Rob, and her children, Evan and Kaitlyn. She adored year-round trips to Hampton Beach, New Hampshire, with her beloved husband; kayaking adventures with her beautiful daughter; and visiting Vermont to see her proud son. Sherrie also cared deeply for her many friends and held them close to her heart. She is now at peace, reunited with her mother and her “unbiological” sister and best friend, Megan.
Sherrie is survived by her son Evan Jones of Vermont, her daughter Kaitlyn Jones of Athol, and her husband Robert Sexton of Athol, along with his family.
Calling hours will be held at Witty’s Funeral Home, 158 South Main Street, Orange, on January 3, 2026, from 10:00-11:30 A.M., with burial and graveside service in Highland Cemetery, Athol, shortly after.
Following the burial there will be a celebration of life at the Athol American Legion on the corner of Exchange Street and Pequoig Aveue, starting at 12:30 P.M.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Athol Food Pantry.
Witty’s Funeral Home, 158 South Main Street, Orange, is assisting the family.
WWW.WITTYFUNERALHOME.COM

11/25/2025

November 25, 2025

William E. Pajak

PETERSHAM — William Edward “Wild Bill” Pajak, age 89, passed away peacefully on September 23, 2025. He was born in Cambridge, New York.
Affectionately known as “Wild Bill,” he earned his nickname through a spirited personality, a
sense of adventure, and a way of living that made stories worth telling. Whether sharing a
laugh, lending a hand, or offering one of his memorable tales, Wild Bill had a gift for brightening
the days of those around him.
Bill served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War, and following his service, he stayed on the
West Coast for a time before eventually making his way back east.
He moved to Petersham in 1968, settling into what he proudly called his “forever home,” a place where he built a life rooted in warmth, community, and genuine connection.
He owned and operated Petersham Lumber Company for many years, where he met countless
people and built many friendships and connections. After selling the lumber mill, he set up shop
at his home and worked for E.J. Prescott, welding various water works products.
For many years Bill maintained a very large garden, taking great pride in his gardening. He also loved tinkering in his workshop, fixing his lawn tractors, working on his backhoe and fishing—as well as chatting with neighbors, finding joy in simple pleasures and everyday moments.
Though Bill did not have children of his own, he played a meaningful and loving role in the lives
of many over the years. He took joy in teaching any child that came into his life how to fish. His
kindness, humor, and steady presence made him a cherished figure to generations who knew
him.
He was predeceased by his parents, Chester Pajak and Alice VanDusen Pajak, his five
brothers, John, Leon, Paul, Charles, and George; and his sister, Mary.
He leaves behind two brothers, Lewis Pajak of Phoenix, AZ, and Michael Pajak of Clifton Park, NY; along with a number of nieces and nephews.
William will be deeply missed and forever remembered with love.
A private burial will be held.
Witty’s Funeral Home, 158 South Main Street, Orange, is assisting the family.
WWW.WITTYFUNERALHOME.COM

11/24/2025

November 24, 2025

Karl C. Bittenbender

ORANGE- Karl Claude Bittenbender, 87, died on November 18, 2025, at his home in North Orange, MA with friends by his side.
Karl was born in Washington, DC and grew up in Arlington, VA, where he met Doris Hovgren who later became his wife of 58 years until she died in 2021.
Karl attended the University of Idaho, served in the Navy on the Observer and then attended the Chicago Lutheran Theological Seminary.
Karl has been a part of the town of Orange for 60 years, first arriving as pastor of Bethany Lutheran Church.
After his time at Bethany, Karl worked in rural housing improvement, energy conservation, the chamber of commerce, Shawmut Bank and a small business accounting support company.
Around his jobs, Karl undertook deep involvement in the community, elected to the school committee, participating in North Quabbin Citizen’s Advocacy, serving on the Randall Pond Industrial Corporation and the Orange Economic Development Corporation.
He was treasurer and served on the board of Quabbin Harvest Food Coop and was a Stinking Organizer for the Garlic and Arts Festival.
He volunteered and served on many other boards and committees as well.
Karl has a living sister, Joanne (“Josie”) Bortree, who lives in Pennsylvania. He was pre-deceased by his younger brother Allan Hoschna Bittenbender.
Karl and Doris raised two children, Sheri Lynn Aggarwal, who is married to Rajesh Aggarwal and lives in Reading, MA, and Kevin Nels Bittenbender, married to Peggy Bittenbender who live in Alstead, NH. Kevin and Peggy’s children are Gustave Hovgren Bittenbender, Beatriz Catherine Bittenbender and Georgia Doris Bittenbender.
The family is planning a memorial service at the Orange Town Hall, 6 Prospect Street, on December 6 at 3 PM.
In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Quabbin Harvest, 12 North Main Street, or North Quabbin Citizen Advocacy, P.O. Box 362, both in Orange, MA 01364, or Lutheran World Relief, P.O. Box 17061, Baltimore, MD 21297-1061
Peace to you all.
Witty’s Funeral Home, 158 South Main Street, Orange, is assisting the family.
WWW.WITTYFUNERALHOME.COM

11/21/2025

November 20, 2025

Jon H. Hardie

ROYALSTON- Jon Harold Hardie passed away peacefully at his beloved home, a home he hand-built with friends, family, and neighbors 24 years ago. Jon loved things of beauty; he apprenticed himself to a traditional guide canoe builder in Maine, meticulously building a canvas and cedar canoe complete with steamed ribs and thousands of hand-peened copper nails. His future wife once quipped upon hearing his amazing life tales that if he proposed to her on Tully Lake in this very canoe, she would marry him. He did.
Despite a traumatic childhood and the tragic, violent death of his parents as a young teen, Jon dedicated his life to overcoming that early hardship. He turned toward creative endeavors, served his communities, and worked towards ensuring all his work was driven by compassion and deep caring. He credited his biology teacher for saving his life, seeing the potential in him, and helping him find himself.
A brilliant mind and an almost photographic memory helped propel Jon into leading roles in one career after another. From his father, he learned the art of salesmanship, survival skills, photography, and a love of reading and books. From his mother, he learned persistence and dedication to community.
A defining period in his early life was when his Uncle John Frymoyer took him under his wing, sending him off to be an AMC hut boy in the White Mountains. Days were spent hauling enormous loads of supplies, as well as the famous green chair, from hut to hut.
Working on DNA research at Woods Hole with Dr. Hidemi Sato of Dartmouth Medical School, capturing DNA on super high-speed film, Jon learned critical thinking and a profound respect for scientific inquiry and the nature of dynamic living systems.
Jon completed undergraduate work in Biology and Sociology at Shimer College in Illinois, followed by a Psychology degree from the State University of New York, Albany. Graduate work at Putney Graduate School in Teacher Education was disrupted by alternative service in Harlem and Roxbury as a conscientious objector during the Vietnam War. He attended Episcopal Theological School in Cambridge for nearly three years.
In the early 70s, while working in R&D at Lexington Instruments, he developed an innovative direct blood oxygen measurement system using fuel cell technology that was later used in hundreds of hospitals around the world. The later part of that decade was spent as Project Director for the Rockland Senior Nutrition Program, where he raised money, recruited volunteers, and built a county-wide network of nutrition programs with integrated healthcare services. During that time, along with 12 others, he successfully sued then-President Nixon to release over $750 million in block grants.
The decade of the 80s included serving as Director of Elder Affairs in Salem, MA, increasing services while streamlining costs. He then became Chairman of MicroDirect, where he negotiated and brought Samsung Computers into the US Market. Other projects included developing unique solar projects in New Mexico, such as solar well pump systems on reservations with Native Americans, resulting in special recognition from the early Solar Industry.
Jon dedicated time working for Habitat for Humanity running the woodworking shop near Atlanta. In Maine, Jon became a Circuit Rider, helping to deliver IT technical services to remote non-profits, like the Maine State Library and Library Association, as well as training non-profits on Grant writing.
After moving to Royalston, MA, Jon volunteered as the town's IT director, giving thousands of hours of support "24/7" as he liked to say. He also launched his brainchild—a wireless pilot network that provided Internet Services to the south village area. This system provided service for years, until a viable commercial option became available. He loved the town and served because he thought it was the right thing to do. One can't mention Jon without noting his daily attention to the weather, and commitment to make sure everyone knew when a storm was coming.
Jon was especially proud of his son Brad, when he achieved his dream job as a member of the New York City Fire Department. He was equally proud of his Marine son Scott as he transformed himself into a man.
Jon leaves behind the love of his life, wife Rebecca Krause-Hardie, and dear sons Brad (and Megan), Scott (and Rebecca), and beloved grandkids, Gunner Haubert (and Taylor), Cullen, Talia, Aeden, and Mason. And best boy Kala Dog.
He would encourage donations to the Royalston Fire and EMS Association, Life Path, or any other organization that holds caring, compassion, and loving kindness at their core.
Witty’s Funeral Home, 158 South Main Street, Orange, is assisting the family.
WWW.WITTYFUNERALHOME.COM

11/21/2025

November 20, 2025

Kim M. Parker

ORANGE- Kim M. (Sweeney) Parker, 59, of Red Brook Lane, died on Wednesday morning, November 19, 2025 at Wachusett Rehabilitation and Healthcare in Gardner after her brave battle with Huntington’s disease.
Born in Athol on July 2, 1966, she was the daughter of David and Barbara (Grover) Sweeney and grew up in Athol, graduating from Athol High School in 1984.
She was married to Craig “Jeff” Parker in 1984.
Kim worked for CVS Pharmacy for many years as a pharmacy technician and had previously been a baker at Hamilton Orchards in New Salem.
Kim was devoted to her children and grandchildren and enjoyed time with all of them. An outdoor enthusiast, she also enjoyed skiing, hiking and kayaking and also loved cooking.
Kim leaves behind her daughter, Danielle Rix and her husband, Jesse, of Royalston; sons, Jeffrey Parker and his partner Sarai Velazquez of Methuen, Travis Parker and his fiancée Lorna Rielly of Virginia Beach, Virginia; six grandchildren, Liam, Julian, Levi, Penelope, Lennox and Hayes; sisters, Vicky Blake and Tracey Sweeney, both of Athol; and several nephews and nieces. Kim is also survived by half brothers, David Sweeney of Ohio and Warren Sweeney of Florida; half sisters, Cheryl Cafarelle of Florida and Lyn Sweeney of Ohio.
Calling hours will be held on December 5, 2025 from 4-6 p.m. at Witty’s Funeral Home, 158 South Main Street, Orange.
There will be no formal services.
In lieu of flowers, donations are suggested to Huntington’s Disease Society of America by going to Huntingtons Disease Society of America
Witty’s Funeral Home, 158 South Main Street, Orange, is assisting the family.
WWW.WITTYFUNERALHOME.COM

11/19/2025

November 19, 2025

Diane R. Fortes

ORANGE- Diane R. (Gordon) Fortes, 50, of Memory Lane, died on Sunday afternoon, October 19, 2025 at the University of Massachusetts Medical Center Campus in Worcester surrounded by love and prayers following an illness.
Born in Gardner on March 24, 1975, she was the daughter of Douglas A. Gordon Sr. and Idella M. (Dingman) Gordon and lived in many areas and attended Easthampton High School.
On October 22, 2004, Diane married Gregory Fortes in Brattleboro, Vermont during her favorite time of year and enjoyed 21 years together.
A Personal Care Assistant, Diane had worked for Life Path before illness forced her to stop. She had previously worked at the Pleasant Street School in Athol for the Special Education Department.
Her family and dogs meant the world to Diane. She loved hiking, weight training and was an exceptional shooter, her favorite gun being an AR-15 Bushmaster. Diane also loved decorating for the holidays, especially for Halloween. She tried to make Halloween memorable for the children of the neighborhood including having a photo booth one year.
While Diane will be sorely missed by family and friends, her family is greatly appreciative of all the love, support and donations they have received during her illness.
Diane is survived by her loving husband, Gregory Fortes of Orange; children, Felicia Kunesch of Orange, Khristopher Kunesch of Athol, Jhonathan Kunesch of Hinsdale, NH, Cole Fortes and Malcolm Fortes, both of Orange. She also leaves behind her siblings, Douglas Gordon Jr, of Orange, Hope Bernard of Tennessee, Andrea Harris of New Salem, Anita Gordon of Athol, Tracy Bigwood of Athol, Audrey Gordon of Athol, Ravin Griffith of Athol, Jay Gordon of Orange, Michael Gordon of Athol, Dean Gordon of New Hampshire, Denise Adams of New Hampshire and Oleda Franco of Sturbridge; many nephews and nieces; her mother in law, Wanda Davis of Athol; sisters in law, Patrice Davis of Texas and Tiffany Davis of Florence, MA.
Diane was predeceased by a brother, Jeffrey Gordon, a sister, Sheila Gordon, and a brother in law, Donnel Davis.
Calling hours will be held on January 10, 2026 from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. at Witty’s Funeral Home, 158 South Main Street, Orange.
There are no formal services and interment in Silver Lake Cemetery, Athol, will be private.
Witty’s Funeral Home, 158 South Main Street, Orange, is assisting the family.
WWW.WITTYFUNERALHOME.COM

11/11/2025

Today we honor all veterans............

11/10/2025

November 10, 2025

Marie M. Songer

ATHOL- Marie M. Songer, 94, of Old Keene Rd died peacefully at her home on Saturday, November 8, 2025.
Marie was born February 15, 1931 to Hyacinthe and Anna (Savoy) Duguay. She grew up and lived her life in Athol.
In 1952, she married Frank Songer and enjoyed 73 years of marriage together.
Marie was a homemaker while raising her four children and then worked for 17 year at the L.S. Starrett Company in Athol as an inspector.
She enjoyed baking, cooking, fishing, time with family, and watching the Patriots.
Besides her husband Frank, Marie leaves a son, Kent Songer (Susan TandySonger) of Phillipston; daughters Lisa Songer Burke (Jeff Burke) of Rangeley, Maine; Linda Songer of Orange; daughter-in-law Betty Songer of Gardner, and granddaughter Mellissa MacMahon of Pittsburg, PA, who she helped raise. Her other grandchildren include Jennifer Rich, Jessica Decker, Rebecca Songer, Matthew Songer, Marie Larabbe, Charles Chandler, and David Frigon along with 8 great grandchildren. She leaves one sister, Jeanette Capone of Athol and many nieces and nephews.
Besides her parents, Marie was predeceased by a son, Keith Songer; brothers John, Edwin, Richard, Wilbert, Leonard, and Nelson Duguay and sisters Lorinda Holmes, Edna Mallet, Laura Duguay and Marguerite Duguay.
There are no calling hours.
A graveside service will be held at Silver Lake Cemetery, upper section off Lenox Street, Athol, on Saturday, November 22, 2025 at 11 a.m.
Witty’s Funeral Home, 158 South Main Street, Orange, is assisting the family.
WWW.WITTYFUNERALHOME.COM

11/05/2025

November 5, 2025

Paul G. Woodard

GARDNER- Paul G. Woodard, 77, of Blanchard Street, died on Thursday, October 30, 2025 at St. Vincent Hospital in Worcester, following an illness.
Born in Montague on October 18, 1948, he was the son of the late Lloyd and Geraldine (Taylor) Woodard and graduated from Fitchburg High School in 1966.
On June 28, 1966, Paul enlisted in the United States Air Force and was honorably discharged on October 24, 1967.
Paul worked his entire career as a heavy equipment operator in construction before retiring.
He loved his family immensely. Paul enjoyed being at the ocean, listening to the oldies music and watching country western movies, especially the John Wayne's! He really knew how to make you laugh with his great impressions and wise guy lines! Paul also enjoyed watching the Patriots.
Survivors include his sons, Jason Woodard and Shaun Woodard, both of Henderson, Nevada; a daughter, Tasha Woodard of Gardner; six grandchildren; four great grandchildren; sisters Deborah Mailllet of Lexington, North Carolina and Kathryn Conley of Kennet Square, Pennsylvania; and a brother, Stephen Woodard of Sarasota, Florida.
As Paul wanted, there will be no calling hours or services.
Witty’s Funeral Home, 158 South Main Street, Orange, is assisting the family.
WWW.WITTYFUNERALHOME.COM

11/03/2025

With the holidays coming, a timely reminder!

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